It's sort of interesting always to compare petrol prices in the US with those in Australia and in Europe (much higher, much higher again -- damn socialist taxes ;) ). USians will probably cope, but it does drive a move to smaller more fuel efficient cars or at least it is here. (SUVs/4WDs aren't quite as large here, but they're nearly as popular.) The big worry seems to be about consumer activity taking a belting because of people's petrol money doubling over the last five years, and looking like it might go up 50% again.